Detectives were staggered the man - described as in his early 20s and 5ft 5in tall - had the stupidity to upload images of himself on the popular app, triggering a notification to the boy's mum who was still a contact.

The child had been walking past Debden tube station in Essex when the man is said to have asked him for the time.

As the boy got his phone out to check, the alleged thief grabbed the phone and ran off.

Detective constable James Smith said: "The thief has further disclosed, via instant messaging, that he lives in south London.

AND AGAIN: Not content with one incriminating photo, this suspect came back for more [ESSEX POLICE]

“We really can't believe that this man has incriminated himself”

Detective constable James Smith

"Our appeal is to this man's friends and family to contact us or to advise him to hand himself in.

"We really can't believe that this man has incriminated himself."

The man is said to have a "pointy jaw and chin with stable and facial spots".

Anyone with information should contact Loughton police station on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.